The 1914 Lincoln Wheat Penny is one of the most sought-after coins in early 20th-century U.S. coinage. Minted during a transformative period in American history, this penny offers both historical significance and collectible value. Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or just beginning your coin-collecting journey, understanding the 1914 Lincoln Wheat Penny is crucial for appreciating its worth and rarity.
Brief History of the Lincoln Wheat Penny
Introduced in 1909 to commemorate the 100th birthday of Abraham Lincoln, the Lincoln Wheat Penny was a revolutionary design for U.S. coinage. It was the first American coin to feature a real person’s likeness—President Abraham Lincoln—breaking from the tradition of using allegorical figures.
Designed by Victor David Brenner, the obverse (front) features a portrait of Lincoln, while the reverse (back) showcases two wheat ears flanking the words “ONE CENT.” This reverse design remained in use until 1958, after which it was replaced by the Lincoln Memorial reverse in 1959.
1914 Lincoln Wheat Penny: Mint Locations and Mintage
The 1914 Lincoln Penny was struck at three U.S. Mint locations:
| Mint Mark | Location | Mintage |
|---|---|---|
| No Mint Mark | Philadelphia | 75,238,432 |
| D | Denver | 1,193,000 |
| S | San Francisco | 4,137,000 |
Among these, the 1914-D Lincoln Wheat Penny (Denver Mint) is by far the rarest and most valuable, especially in higher grades. Its low mintage makes it one of the key semi-key dates in the entire Lincoln Wheat series.
Identifying the 1914 Lincoln Wheat Penny
Here’s how to identify a 1914 Lincoln Penny:
- Obverse: Abraham Lincoln facing right, the date “1914” on the right side, and “IN GOD WE TRUST” along the upper edge. The word “LIBERTY” appears to Lincoln’s left.
- Mint Mark: Below the date, a small letter may appear—“D” for Denver or “S” for San Francisco. If there’s no letter, the coin was struck in Philadelphia.
- Reverse: “ONE CENT” in large letters centered, with “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” below, and “E PLURIBUS UNUM” above. Two stylized wheat ears border the sides.
Value of the 1914 Lincoln Wheat Penny
1. 1914 (No Mint Mark – Philadelphia)
While over 75 million were struck, most are circulated and show wear. Uncirculated examples are scarcer and valued higher.
- Good (G-4): $0.50–$1.00
- Fine (F-12): $2–$4
- Extremely Fine (EF-40): $15–$25
- Mint State (MS-60 to MS-65): $50–$150+
2. 1914-D (Denver Mint)
The 1914-D is one of the rarest and most desirable Lincoln Wheat Pennies. Fewer were minted, and even fewer survive in decent condition today.
- Good (G-4): $200–$300
- Fine (F-12): $400–$600
- Extremely Fine (EF-40): $1,000+
- Mint State (MS-60 to MS-65): $2,500–$10,000+
3. 1914-S (San Francisco Mint)
Scarcer than the Philadelphia issue but far more available than the Denver Mint version.
- Good (G-4): $20–$30
- Fine (F-12): $35–$60
- Extremely Fine (EF-40): $120–$200
- Mint State (MS-60 to MS-65): $300–$1,000+
Note: Values vary depending on the coin’s condition, color (red, red-brown, or brown), and market demand. Certified coins from PCGS or NGC typically command higher prices.
Why the 1914-D Lincoln Penny Is So Valuable
Several factors contribute to the 1914-D penny’s premium:
- Low mintage of only 1,193,000.
- High attrition rate—many were heavily circulated or lost.
- It is a key date needed to complete Lincoln cent collections.
- Fewer high-grade survivors exist compared to other early dates.
Its combination of scarcity and demand makes it one of the top five most valuable Lincoln Wheat Pennies.
Counterfeits and Authentication
Because of the 1914-D penny’s value, it is one of the most counterfeited Lincoln cents. A common trick involves adding a fake “D” mint mark to a 1914 Philadelphia penny. These counterfeits can deceive even experienced collectors.
To ensure authenticity:
- Compare the mint mark’s position and shape to known genuine examples.
- Look under magnification for signs of tampering.
- Purchase from reputable dealers or ensure the coin is certified by PCGS or NGC.
Tips for Collectors
- Buy Graded Coins: When purchasing a 1914-D or high-grade 1914-S, opt for coins that are third-party certified to ensure authenticity and accurate grading.
- Check for Original Surfaces: Coins with original luster and minimal cleaning hold higher value.
- Avoid Cleaned Coins: Cleaning diminishes collector value. Always look for coins with natural toning or patina.
- Focus on Eye Appeal: Even in lower grades, a coin with pleasing toning and minimal damage is often more desirable than a higher-grade coin with poor eye appeal.
- Store Properly: Use acid-free holders and avoid excessive handling to maintain your coin’s condition.
Final Thoughts
The 1914 Lincoln Wheat Penny is a standout coin in American numismatics, particularly the elusive 1914-D. Whether you’re looking to complete a Lincoln cent collection or invest in rare coins, this penny offers an exciting opportunity. Its historical roots, low mintage, and collector demand make it a timeless classic worth owning.
If you happen to come across a 1914 penny in your change, take a closer look—it could be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars!
FAQs About the 1914 Lincoln Wheat Penny
Q: What makes the 1914-D penny so rare?
A: Its low mintage of just 1,193,000 and the fact that most entered circulation make high-quality examples extremely scarce.
Q: How can I tell if my 1914 penny is genuine?
A: The best way is to have it authenticated by a reputable coin grading service like PCGS or NGC.
Q: Is the 1914-S penny valuable?
A: Yes. While not as rare as the 1914-D, the 1914-S still commands good value, especially in higher grades.
Q: Can I find a 1914 Lincoln Wheat Penny in circulation?
A: It’s highly unlikely. Most are in collections, though rare finds occasionally happen.